Heavy periods resulting from fibroids can lead to iron deficiency anemia. The Mayo Clinic web site has some good information on the signs and symptoms.
General Symptoms of Anemia:
- Extreme fatigue
- Pale skin
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness
- Cold hands and feet
Specific Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia:
- Inflammation or soreness of your tongue
- Brittle nails
- Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances, such as ice, dirt or pure starch
- Headache
- Poor appetite
- Some people with iron deficiency anemia experience restless legs syndrome— an uncomfortable tingling or crawling feeling in your legs that’s generally relieved by moving them
I suffered from just about every symptom listed in the general category. The fatigue was extreme. I was ALWAYS tired and weak. Walking up just a few steps caused me to become completely winded. EVERY time I stood up, my heart would beat out of my chest and I would feel faint. I was also dealing with a loss in concentration which, for me, was torture. Specifically, headaches were a big problem. Didn’t really suffer from too many before this so I noticed the increase. Also had a weird tingling sensation in my legs that I originally attributed to my fibroids. I now believe I was experiencing restless leg syndrome.
If you have a problem with blood loss and notice these symptoms, seek medical assistance. My anemia forced me to “crawl” in for help. Please don’t wait for your situation to get to that point.
January 22, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Hi Amy,
Yes, I have two submucosal fibroids – not very large, but very bloody. Thank you for the information on the NSAIDs. I did not know that they can assist contractions. It looks like I have to go read about prostaglandins now.
My fibroids – as of last check – have not been increasing in size but the bleeding has been getting significantly worse. I believe a number of things have contributed to this: the long term anemia and the loss of iron reserves, insufficient leafy greens in my diet, less B12 than I should have because of twenty years of vegetarianism, and the fact that anemia seems to gain speed the longer one has it. You become more anemic, you bleed more, you become even more anemic, and you bleed even more.
I had no idea that I was anemic until November when I had blood work done in anticipation of surgery. My hemaglobin count was at 8.4. It was illuminating in that I had been feeling utterly unlike myself – no ambition, no energy, no fire. The iron has made a tremendous difference but every period feels like a war of attrition.
January 23, 2008 at 12:26 pm
Hi Aja, yes I was just below 8 too… and it seemed my OBG didn’t think it was a big deal… but my sister who is a nurse insisted I see my primary and right away she set me up for a transfusion. I wasn’t thrilled about the idea, but my daughter volunteered to donate one pint and I got another from a stranger. What a difference! I think I and others have written more about this on the other thread here that deals with heavy bleeding… I was so thrilled when my doc got rid of the submucosal. I was out the same day too. I just wish I could get rid of the others too … although I’m not bleeding anymore, I just hate the big belly and wonder if it is giving me some backpain. By the way… the article above got cut off (I should have just put in the link…but I think the important parts are in there) — When do you go in for surgery, and what kind are you having?
January 23, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Hi Amy,
I went in in November for what I thought would be a biopsy, a myomectomy (if feasible) and a D and C. They ended up doing nothing because of my blood count: they did not want to transfuse me for an elective surgery and feared an uncontrolled bleed if they touched the fibroids. Apparently my endometrium looks fine and all I got for going under was a couple of nice photos of my tumors (to be fair, they are covered with blood vessels) and the recommendation (once again) to get a hysterectomy.
I asked instead to go onto the progeston only mini-pill. (I know no one knows what causes these things, but I feel that it was the long use of BCP’s and the estradiol in them.) Supposedly one of the mini-pills possible side effects is the complete suppression of menses (sign me up!). This seemed better than lupron and also takes care of birth control which is still an issue for me. Since the switch I have had one barn burner two weeks in duration and am now holding my breath for the next one. (Since all the pills are the same, you never know when it will strike.)
I then went rogue because every time I see my doctors they want to give me a hysterectomy and I do not consider this negotiable. (Someone on one of these threads said that she felt like she was considered a “naughty girl” for not having had one yet. Yup.) I therefore have scheduled to see a doctor who performs the focused ultrasound procedure and through his office scheduled an MRI. It is expensive and will be out of pocket but I am looking forward to meeting a doctor who at least shares my desire to preserve my uterus.
I have also made an appointment to see my primary care physician so that I can get referrals to a naturopath and perhaps an endocrinologist. Hopefully we can get my body’s hormones balanced out so that the tumors won’t grow back. I’m about to turn 42. I need to make it ten more years.
If the ultrasound procedure proves impossible or I have a bad spidey sense about it, I will also consult a radiologist to check on UAE. I have decided that for me the best route is to start with as little intervention as possible and escalate.
I have found the whole really scary and lonely: trying to work through the exhaustion and bleedouts, not having people recognize how sick I am, having no one I trust amongst my doctors, and liking none of my options. I am so grateful for this website and everyone who shares their stories.
My various appointments are in the first week of February and we will see what I learn from them. I am particularly excited to see my MRI scans and have them interpreted as I should learn a lot more about the size and position of my fibroids and the challenges of their treatment. Iron supplements and having a plan of attack are making me much more hopeful.
January 23, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Nice!
February 13, 2008 at 4:04 pm
I’m SO glad I’m not alone…my bleeding episodes have just about made me crazy.I’m 43 and have had heavy, I mean liver clot, massive clot, loo kin like I just gave birth to a kitten. I have about 4 to 5 days a month of feeling normal…I have heart palpitations, panic attacks and crave ice like its candy and love the smell of dirt and beets. My doc. said that I was glucose intolerant and was gona put me on meds for it, she said that would slow down the bleeding, but she said to check with my prim. doc. before taking them, then he said no cause they could be fatal. oh yea ! now I’m back to square one.I just want to feel normal again. thank ya’ll so much for all the comments I have read… I dont feel i’m alone anymore.
February 17, 2008 at 7:46 pm
Hello
I have had four smallish fibroids grow over the last five years. I had a huge bleed, and the doc put me on 200mg iron tabs three times per day. I felt like a new woman! I must have been anaemic for years. I have recently started taking blackstrap molasses and apple cider vinegar, and feel loads better! Still taking my iron pills and other supplements (blackcurrant seed oil, agnus castus, vit c, evening primrose, vit b complex). I have gone over recently too to being practically vegan (though not completely). Apparently beans, wholefoods and brown rice help balance hormones and soak up excess oestrogen.
Recently my uterus has been inflamed and is still bleeding after my period. It’s at its worst right now – I’m going to ask for a myomectomy. It’s bit of a nightmare, isn’t it? I’m 46.
I had a Mirena coil put in a year ago, but it seems to have made things worse rather than better.
But the pure, organic diet and blackstrap is really great. I also drink lots of detox herb tea and have cut out alcohol, chocolate, meat and coffee. Cutting out coffee and alcohol will straight away increase your energy levels and reduce any PMT.
xxx
February 18, 2008 at 12:59 am
hi I’m 27 and everything I have heard here has helped me a lot . I have had irregular period for a while. then at the beginning of the year I bleed for 17 days and then stopped which I thought was okay since I had not gotten a period since October. Then a week later I started to bleed really heavy.
I when to the doctor after three days and she ran some test. last week she told me I have sever anemia (Hemoglobin 7.8) and I have fibroid. I am so confused, tired and just exhausted. I am going to see the ob-gyn friday.
thank
February 18, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Hi Liz,
I was around 7.8 too, and it is hard to even think when your iron is so low! My sis who is a nurse told me to just ask for a transfusion cause you don’t have to live that way. My OBGYN didn’t offer it, but when I told my primary care physician about my blood level, she suggested it too. I didn’t like the idea, but got a pint from my daughter and one from someone else, and felt SO much better. It sneaks up on you and you don’t remember what Normal is like.
Best.
February 18, 2008 at 7:06 pm
Today I made an appointment with the consultant who arranged the Mirena coil for me. I’m going to ask for a myomectomy. They could only give me 9 April. But at least it’s another point on the map. It’s vital to have a path ahead in view, some way or other. xx
February 18, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Here are my fibroid supplement strategies, if anyone’s interested:
. blackcurrant seed oil – one capsule per day – helps balance hormones, good for sore, swollen nipples prior to menstruating
. 2g vit c per day
. 600mg iron (ferrous sulphate) per day
. 1 tbsp blackstrap molasses (organic) in hot water per day
. 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (organic) in cold water per day
. 1 vit b complex tablet per day
. 25 drops (1ml) tincture of agnus castus per day – helps balance hormones, has a progesteronal effect and helps PMT
. nettle/dandelion/rooibos tea – several cups per day to cleanse liver
. I also take mefenamic and tranexamic acid, which are great for reducing the flow/helping it to clot rather than loads of liquid
. no alcohol or coffee, meat or chocolate (well, sometimes a little square) – this really helps with PMT and cramps! It helps iron absorb more fully – caffeine inhibits this – and you feel much more energetic without coffee. Hard, but worth it
. Only a little dairy – eggs inhibit iron absorption and so does milk
Best. This is a great site, it’s comforting to hear familiar tales.
xxx
February 18, 2008 at 9:33 pm
hi liz,
I had fibroids and intense periods for many years and my hemoglobin went down to 6.1, but it went down gradually so I hardly felt weak, but it is a serious condition.
I was taking iron supplements but the Feosol – carbonyl iron (the iron sulfate or iron salts can sometimes upset your stomach, it did mine)
Also you can take iron and vitamin c, or something containing vitamin c (like orange juice) to increase absorption rate. Actually the heme iron that red meats contain (but chicken does have some too) not only absorb the best of all iron sources, but they also help other iron sources (like supplements) absorb better if taken together. I did make a point to add red meat to my diet for this reason, though I am by no means a fan
I also couldn’t say goodbye to coffee, but my hemoglobin went up anyway, although it did take quite some time ( I had a myomectomy in the middle of this process, but went without a transfusion, fortunately) Good luck!
February 18, 2008 at 10:03 pm
liz,
blessing!
one more thing, we are all sharing here but do discuss your anemia treatment with your doctor before starting anything of course
March 9, 2008 at 6:49 pm
Thank you for your posts. It has been a comfort to me to hear other folks had the heart palpatations and pulse in the ears that I have had. I have been helped by Blood Builders (iron), Pantothenic Acid, B Complex, Dhea and Vitamin D. It didn’t all kick in until my doc raised the Blood Builders to three a day and the DHEA to 10mg and I added the D.
Has anyone had the experience of getting sick from fibroid die-off during the normal ebb of estrogen during ovulation and mentruation?
April 19, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Wow, this is amazing to hear all your stories. I too have several large fibroid tumors, extreme heavy bleeding for long periods-3weeks, passing clots, chronic amemia (hemoglobin @ a 6), heart palpitations, weakness & extreme fatigue, restless leg syndrome, ice cravings, confusion, fainting spells, mini stokes, 2 blood transfusions in the past year (last one 3 weeks ago). ..and no health insurance. My last blood transfusion cost me $11,000…havent gotten the bill for my most recent one. It is nice to know I am not alone. My doctor seems to think a hysterectomy is the only answer. I am 45 years old and this has been going on for 8 years and continues to worsen the older I get. I am taking iron supplements but bleed so horribly, it actually scares me…DOES ANYONE have any suggestions for me? I will be going in a again for a Prim Pro shot to see if this will curtail my bleeding as I have been bleeding again for 2 weeks…they should have given me the shot when I was there for my blood transfusion, but failed to do so. Any sugesstions would be most appreciated. Thanks for sharing everyone…feels good to know I am not alone!
April 21, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Hi Pauette,
If you can afford to do something about the fibroids, I strongly suggest getting them treated. The severity of your anemia suggests that you are not having success managing it and from my own experience, I can say that your quality of life is more deeply compromised than you probably even realize. Waiting for menopause may still take quite a while if you are only 45.
Because I only had one small fibroid, I do not know what treatment options might be best for you — but it has been my experience that doctors tend to recommend the procedures that they are most comfortable performing. It may be less expensive for you to take a less invasive route to your treatment – MRIgFUS or UAE – simply because you won’t have to pay for as much hospital time and you would not be as likely to need additional transfusions — but you will need to consult with a doctor who can screen you as a candidate for those procedures and tell you how successful they are likely to be in treating you.
I would read up on the threads that deal with the above procedures and make sure to ask your doctor why he/she is recommending hysterectomy as the only option. Also, since you have no health insurance, find out what the procedure will cost and – since you have anemia – write it down so that as you gather the options, you can have a talk with a good friend about it when it comes time to decide.
Here is another website that is frequented by doctors and often posts some good articles about options/studies/complication rates et cetera: http://www.obgyn.net/fibroid-resource-center/
Best of luck!
April 24, 2008 at 12:07 am
Thank you so much. Have you heard of NovaSure? It is an Endometrial Ablation…not sure if this can be done with fibroids. Thanks again for the information Aja…I will most definately check things out. I had my Lupron Shot today. Hope it helps the bleeding. I knew my health had been compromised dramatiaclly when I began having mini-strokes a year ago. Those are under control for now. Thanks again!
April 24, 2008 at 11:23 am
Hi Paulette,
Some people have good luck with endometrial ablation. From what I have read about it online, it depends how it is performed — some people have written about how doctors who perform ablations with a “rollerball” can shave down any fibroids while performing it or resect small fibroids (though this seems like it might involve some fairly heavy blood loss). Also, how big your fibroids are, and whether your endometrium is the problem.
Since my fibroid was growing into my uterine cavity, it meant that I basically had twice the endometrium to slough off for each period. BUT, that wasn’t what was really causing me the most problems. Because the fibroid is warped muscle tissue, it does not tense up properly to squeeze shut the blood supply after the endometrium sheds (that fabulous cramping). And so I was hemorrhaging — which got worse as my anemia got worse and my blood got thinner. (But again, that was my situation and may be an entirely different situation from yours.)
The best procedure will depend upon what type and number of fibroids you have. Your critters may already be too large for novasure to be effective, but only a doctor can tell you. Oh, and one last thing — do not be afraid to ask a doctor how many procedures s/he has performed. I know it seems rude, but you’re paying for it. It is a lot more serious than having a car worked on and you’d want to know if your mechanic had experience working on your type of car. You don’t want to be the mechanic’s first brake job!
Good luck!
April 25, 2008 at 10:26 am
Paulette, to add to Aja’s great explanation, a hysteroscopic endometrial ablation with say a rollerballl, means the doctor is actually looking into your uterus while moving the rollerball around to shave the endometrium, rather than putting in a device that destroys the endometrium it is in contact with (like novasure) these devices either heat or freeze the endometrium they are in contact with. And that is the key, if the inside of your uterus is very lumpy because of fibroids, the devices may not be able to be in contact with all of your endometirum. Hysteroscopic ablations require more training and are not as fast, so frankly, some doctors prefer the other methods because they can do them after a very short training. Addmitedly, a hysteroscopic ablation may also carry more risk (I forget if it may be going through the uterine wall or what) — but it is what I chose (well, my doctor offered and explained the above and I researched). He found a small fibroid we didn’t know about in the lining and he shaved it down. Anyway, I was passing huge clots – one period I think I lost about a quart of blood (literally) – and it has completely stopped!
May 8, 2008 at 10:59 am
I’m also anemic thanks to two pretty large submucous fibroids. Found them after they landed me in the emergency room during standby jury duty (gave the others something interesting to talk about during the afternoon). I think I lost about a half a gallon that day.
I wanted to say how reassuring it was so see that others have had similar “odd” symptoms. I’d been commenting to friends for several months now that I’ve become strangely attracted to the aroma of my garage–the smell of cars, exhaust, and gas… Just had my mower blade sharpened at an old little repair place–gas mowers constantly running, oil on the floor… I found it delightful (pretty weird.) I was also completely addicted to carrots, and thought I’d been craving the “crunching”.
A transfusion got me up to 9, and I’ve gone up to 10.7 in less than a week. Feeling 1000% better and highly recommend Ferro-Sequels. (Started out having an Activia yogurt at night to combat the possible side effects of the iron, but it really wasn’t necessary.) Not much for red meat, but I highly recommend (grass-fed) bison steaks–nice and lean, with very good flavor. Whole Foods also offers Electrolyte Enhanced Water as a substitute for the (too sweet for me) Gatorade. Walnuts and pumpkin seeds, too!
January 29, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Wow! I can’t believe it, reading your posts! I’ve had fibroids and very heavy periods for a long time. For the past two years, I’ve been so tired and irritable with my husband and children. I’m addicted to carrots, my nails and hair are dry and I’ve lost a lot of hair. I didn’t know what was happening to me. Thought I was just bad tempered, lazy and weird because of the carrots. I got diagnosed with anemia 2 weeks ago. I’m at 6.9. I’m so grateful to know what’s going on and to read your posts! It’s very reassuring and I feel that there’s hope!
I saw a gynecologist yesterday and decided we’d induce a temporary menopause with hormones for 4 months to stop the bleeding and reduce the size of my uterus and then do a hysterectomy in 4 months. It seems like the right thing to do even though I feel weird about the meds-induced menopause and about losing my uterus which served me well by letting me give birth to two beautiful and healthy children.
I look forward to reading all your posts. Thank you.
July 14, 2008 at 1:11 pm
OMG!! Thank you, thank you and thank you to everyone who took the time to write in!!!
I have Submucosal fibroids and started birth control pills continuously (no break for periods) and I have been bleeding everyday since (about 3 months ago) and have hemorrhaged about once a week for the last 3 weeks. I am taking iron pills and eat right. I am still dead tired and now my skin, hair and nails are dry.
I am 41 and have my children and really want a partial hysterectomy. Is there any reason I should not just jump ahead and get the surgery and forget the list of medications to control this and get my life back?
Thank you for ALL the comments on this site. I certainly do not feel alone anymore as I was starting to loose my mind till I read all these stories!! Thanks!!
September 14, 2008 at 9:57 pm
Thanks for everyone’s comments, it is so comforting to know that I am not alone.
I am 41 years old, never had children, however, would like to leave my option open. I am scheduled to have UAE procedure, I know this procedure my not be the best if planning to have kids. However, my OBGYN suggested this procedure considering my condition. I am extremely anemic and was hospitalized as a result about 6 months ago, I was given blood transfusion, for this reason , my Dr strongly suggested this procedure and I comply.
Does any one have any suggestion experience about UAE procedure?
Thanks for everyone’s comments, it is so comforting to know that I am not alone.
I am 41 years old, never had children, however, would like to leave my option open. I am scheduled to have UAE procedure, I know this procedure my not be the best if planning to have kids. However, my OBGYN suggested this procedure considering my condition. I was hospitalized 6 months ago, and was given blood transfusion to treat my anemia caused by heavy bleeding . My Dr strongly suggested this procedure as the best choice considering my situation.
Does any one have any suggestion/experience about the UAE procedure?
I would love to hear from you all.
By the way I am taking Promterium 200mg, since then, no period for the last two weeks.
Thanks,
Sunny
December 21, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Sunny
I recently underwent UAE and am curious if you have had it since I am reading your post from September, and it’s now December…would love to discuss with you in either case because we are about the same age and your story sounds just like mine (prometrium, heavy bleeding, anemia, etc)
Mary
January 17, 2009 at 9:31 pm
I found out in Oct. ‘08 I have a 5 cm submucosal fibroid, after I had gone to my internist in Sept. and complained of being tired and having irregular/heavy periods. My hemoglobin was 8.7 at that time, and, it turns out, it had been that low since Oct. ‘07. My former gyno (emphasis on “former”) neglected to give me the actual number at my annual then, just said I was “low” on iron. Um…yeah.
This Sept., I started ferrous sulfate three times a day (which, strangely, didn’t bother my stomach at all) and managed to bring it up to 14.7 by mid-November. I’ve been bleeding from this fibroid since mid-December, though, (and, no that’s NOT a typo – four weeks of this misery) and I’m pretty sure it’s dropping again. How could it not, right? I’m back on the iron twice a day, in addition to now taking a mini-course of Premarin to try to stop the bleeding. FYI -It’s not working. This is after I was on Aygestin for a couple of months and it stopped working. I don’t think the dosing was right on that, though. If anyone here has taken Aygestin for fibroid bleeding, I’d be interested in your experience.
March 1, 2010 at 2:38 am
Try Braggs Mothers Apple Cider Vinegar and Plantation Organic Unsulphured Black Strap Molasses. Worked miracles for me. I began with 2 TABLE spoons, twice per day of both vinegar and UBSM. I now take half and bleeding is controlled. This did stop the bleeding and pain. My hemoglobin increased to normal range within 1.5 months. Cream of Wheat, raisins, almonds, collard greens and spinach are among a few iron filled products.
Best Wishes
March 5, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Liebherr
Good interpretation, but I think hardly could be apllied to life.
ksoleifdjj388
March 10, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Hello Everyone,
I am sure you can only imagin how i feel, reading all of your comments, I am 39 and have massive fibroids, and low iron and not to mention ICE cravings. I want so much to have children so having everything removed is not an option. Can some one tell me what they used to SHRINK THE FIBROIDS. my aunt told me to drink beets with molasses. is there any suggestions.
March 11, 2009 at 11:29 pm
I’m 53 and I had such a time with anemia for at least 20 years. I was told constantly to have a hysterectomy and I absolutely refused. With my blood count being so low I was certain I’d have even more issues. I was tired and craved ice constantly. Several times I was in need of pure oxygen to revive me to even continue for the day. My company sent me home on short term disability and demanded I not return until I was better. The doctor at that time placed me on lupron and it helped a little but after three months I still had extreme anemia. So my doctor dismissed me. He stated he couldn’t do any more for me. Lost my job,too.
So THEN I checked out black strap molasses and discovered the miracle cure of my life. My blood count increased, slept better, lost weight and my craving for ice decreased.
Then to cap things off a friend told me about Goji juice and I began adding that to my diet. Finally I began to see a definite change.
Then about a year later I added Nature MADE Multi vitamin gel for Her to my regimen. WOW!!!!!! I live again!!!!
It has been wonderful to finally cease menstruating and know I don’t have to worry about heavy cycles or any cycles. I had multiple fibroids that covered my entire uterine wall and they are no longer a problem.
I do not care for doctors and believe as my 80 year old mother who takes no medication at all for anything. She eats all her foods raw and eats no meats or refined foods. She has more energy than most all people we know. She also made a carrot juice concoction with spinach and coconut oil and protein powder and several other things when I would become too weak to get up and immediately I was up and going. Trust me!!! You can live without chemicals and doctors who tend to not have a clue. They are fine for some basics but even then I find natural remedies have been more practical generally.
As shown on this sight, most women have similar problems. You’d think by now the doctors would be more inclined to suggest these remedies as well and not become offended when you inquire about them.
March 30, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Dear Eclectik Geek and Everyone Else on this Blog,
Thanks again!
Several weeks ago I just happened upon this website and I must admit, this is one of the most amazing websites I have visited–Eclectik’s responsiveness and oversight is top-notch! The degree for sharing and candor in the emails is deeply appreciated because hearing different opinions and gaining the most information possible will help in the variety of decisions that are available. I am a healthcare worker and we usually make the worst patients–Being a patient is not something I desire–however, I am 48 years old and going to see about something in my abdomen on Thursday–I have a range of the symtoms above–easily tired, palpatations, very heavy and crampy cycles, more clots–bedridden stuff–though my periods are regular and they are only somehwhat longer– I have reallly begun to dread my periods. I see some periodic color changes in feet/hands from cold to hot or very sensitive to temperature—The iron thing is interesting and may be my issues!!I think this possible fibroid is very large and I am about to deal with it–just want to thank everyone for sharing and how important it is to all of us!! It’s helpful and reassuring that so many women understand and are feeling very similar!
This website and the blogs have been very helpful to me–Thank you again. PS: believe it or not my intense craving the last many months has been classic lays potato chips–just the last couple of weeks I have made a strong effort to stop buying them–it was ridiculous–and I had never been one to eat something like that as a staple…no more.
Powers
June 12, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Thank God I came across this site. I have been bleeding for 3 weeks now. I went to the doctor because I felt tired all the time and I have been anemic since in my 20’s. My doctor said that my hemoglobin is at a 8.1 which is very low.
I had a myomectomy 3 years ago and the surgeon had to leave 1 in because it was so close to my blood line (?).
Well, that one he left is back, with a vengeance! It has grown and it looks like I am 4 months pregnant. I am 37 years old and have never been pregant. I DO NOT want a hysterectomy and am considering UAE. I got a Lupron shot which is supposed to stop the bleeding, which of course it did…for 1 whole day!! I am back to bleeding very heavily again…*sigh*
My question is, how do I get the bleeding to stop? I can’t take this anymore! The doctor said that if I soak a pad or a tampon within an hour to go to emergency so that they can stop the bleeding, but why can’t they just stop the bleeding now??
June 18, 2009 at 3:55 pm
I have a large fibroid and I can’t stand my cycles,they are very heavy and the pain is sometimes unbearable not to mention backpain,numbness and tingling in the legs as well as my legs feeling like someone added 20 pound weights in each one,I am anemic and I crave ice chips like going out of style.I went to my primary md and she referred me to an ob/gyn who quickly examined me and said you need a hysterectomy,I told her NO WAY what other option is there and she said I do myomectomies but I don’t recommend it because the fibroid will only grow back.I got out of her office and never looked back because another md I conversed with stated that you only need a hysterectomy if they find cancer and that there are too many needless hysterectomies being done on women,I am in my 40s but I will not let someone butcher me up for nothing and leave me in worse shape than fighting a fibroid.Anyone care to comment please feel free,I would love to hear from you.
June 27, 2009 at 3:39 pm
Kym, how are you doing? When I was bleeding I had been staying away from asprin and motrin because I thought they would thin my blood and make me bleed more – well, it turns out Motrin actually does help slow down the bleeding! I heard that and found that it actually did help.
Kathy – I sure hope you look for another surgeon. There a plenty of women who don’t have them come back – it definitely is not a certainty. I’m not sure, but I suspect women who have more than one may be more likely to have them come back. And even if one came back, it would need to grow before it caused problems if it does at all. It may grow in another area that is okay and maybe it won’t grow that much anyway. And some women have a second surgery – not optimal, but certainly possible. So, with such nasty symptoms, I would certainly keep looking. Best to you!
June 28, 2009 at 10:47 am
Hi Kathy,
It is not necessary to get a hysterectomy unless you decide that that is the right choice for you. I had focussed ultrasound and have been very happy with that choice. I have a very good friend who got uterine fibroid embolization and had success with her procedure. And what Amy says about the myomectomy is correct also. Thus, you have a lot of options beyond hysterectomy if that isn’t what you want to do.
Good luck!
July 13, 2009 at 2:05 pm
Always nice to know you aren’t alone in the world. For several months my cycles have gotten heavier and heavier. 7, 8, 9, 12 days with spotting before and after. Then on May 14 the spotting returned, along with Niagra Falls. 4 weeks ago Dr put me on Prometrium, did a uterine and cervical biopsy to r/o cancer, ran a CA 125 for ovarian CA. And told me the prometrium would stop the bleeding. A few days after starting it, (while on vacation in maine) I started gushing, non-stop blood flow w/ enormous (hand sized) clots. This continued for several days. The dr phoned in a new script for double the dose (400 mg) of Prometrium and told me to take iron pills. 9 weeks after this period began i’m still bleeding. I was diagnosed(after ultrasound last week) w/ adenomyosis and large cyst on my left ovary.
I am seeing the surgeon on friday. I want it out. All of it.
Tired of not being able to breathe, to climb stairs or carry equipment or my grandchildren.
Quite Miserable actually.
Hope you all find some relief.
July 14, 2009 at 4:52 am
Hi Carla,
I can certainly say I know how you feel,it’s depressing to keep going through the mess.I work in long term care/rehab and I am on my feet on concrete floors all of the time and it has been times when I was at work that I was like Niagra Falls-you talk about miserable!That’s me.I get tired of feeling like a babys head is on my bottom and I have to urinate numerous times throughout the day-the only time I really get relief is when I am lying down but it feels like the fibroid is moving from one side of my abdomen to the other.I would love to know why women get fibroids and if there is some way to prevent them.Right now I am planning on seeing another OB-GYN and getting rid of this thing and I pray it wont come back because if it does then I will probably end up with a hysterectomy,I can’t be bothered with it.Anyway in whatever you decide I wish you the very best,Take Care.
July 16, 2009 at 12:12 am
Hi guys, 3 weeks ago I had a total abdominal hysterectomy to remove a fibroid (about softball size). It had distended my stomach so I looked about 4 months pregnant (and it was still growing). When lying down in the morning, I could see my bladder (the fibroid pushed the bladder outwards), and I would think I guess I need to go to the toilet. Blood flow was a nightmare every month – changing tampons every 45 mins, having to get up 5 times a night and still soaking pjs and having to sleep on a towel. I had anaemia – level of just under 10 so was not as bad as some guys who have posted on this site. I was diagnosed with anaemia (and this fibroid was found as a result of subsequent investigations) when I was admitted to hospital for a totally unrelated issue, after a routine blood test. Imagine, I was lying on the bed with my head swimming in dizziness, having vomited everytime I moved, my eyes were buzzing back and forwards (nystygmus) and the Doc asked “Are you always this pale??” LOL…..I wasnt feeling any symptoms except headaches.
and am very positive about the future.
Since my husband and I had completed our family and I was sick and tired of periods, I was happy with the suggestion of a hysterectomy. The ovaries are left in, so I am not experiencing menopause. When they opened me up they fixed up a cyst on an ovary and removed endometriosis too, both of which were contributing to the blood consumption/evacuation. I dont regret having a hysterectomy. I feel great
Its wonderful that we have more choices now, so shop around for a gyno that you like and respect, and do lots of research, but remember that there is no need to live in pain and discomfort.
July 18, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Hi all, just a reminder for anyone new to this thread and who doesn’t read the older posts. There are a number of other options if you aren’t sure about a hysterectomy. I had a hysteroscopic d&c and endometrial ablation in ‘06 and it completely stopped my bleeding. It was a pretty simple procedure – went in in the morning, left in the afternoon. You can find out more about the EA here: http://blog.geekwithfibroids.com/2006/10/24/how-are-you-feeling-after-your-endometrial-ablation/
July 20, 2009 at 6:05 pm
I discovered this forum last night & read absolutely every entry with great interest. I am also suffering from extreme anemia from fibroids (9.1 hemoglobin & 28.3 hematicrit which isn’t as bad as some people on this site, but bad enough!).
I am 52 & started to go through a natural menopause right after Christmas 2008 until April 7 2009. I was celebrating, my color came back, my fibroids felt like they were shrinking, sex was a pleasure again, I felt as good as I used to when I was 16 years old (which is something I never thought I’d feel). Then my periods came back with a vengeance! I was always able to tolerate my “prior” heavy periods by staying home for a day (I am self employed). But since my periods have come back, I am taking 8 days to recover instead of the one I used to have & I have a brand new endiometrial polyp that wasn’t there before (the fibroids didn’t grow in a year, though, so that’s good news).
The bleeding is getting really frightening & gyns are going on vacation at this time. Can this kill a person?
I have tended to be a natural remedies person & felt most comfortable with Maria’s views (above), though I’m not sure it’s safe to wait it out like she did, but I’m using her suggestions while I check out doctors & look into all of the alternatives.
I just wonder… is this happening to any other women here?
Periods gone & then back this bad?
July 23, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Hi Lisa,
Have you read the following thread: http://blog.geekwithfibroids.com/2007/02/02/how-are-you-managing-your-heavy-menstrual-bleeding/
That might help give you other info. Make sure you take Motrin as that will definitely cut down on the bleeding (wish I’d known that sooner).
April ‘09 isn’t that long ago, I’d gone for months at a time without a period and then I’d start squeezing out a few more eggs (I guess!) and have a few more periods. But it could easily be your polyp causing the bleeding or something else could be going on, so it’s important to check all of that out.
I’m 53 and highly recommend a hysteroscopic endometrial ablation with a d&c – that way they can remove the polyp and look inside to see if everything looks okay too – (which they don’t do with the other kinds of endometrial ablations – like Novasure etc.)
As for whether or not this could kill you, well, certainly if you were to lose too much blood I imagine so… I have to admit I wondered the same thing one night as I passed had sized clots…I was even afraid to go to sleep that night. If you are still bleeding now, see another doctor, at least you can get something to help stop the bleeding and you can also get an opinion from them while you are at it. Then see your reg. gyn when s/he is back from vacation. If your blood goes way down, don’t tough it out, get a transfusion – I did, and it was a huge help!
Keep us posted.
Best.
July 27, 2009 at 6:14 pm
Thanks, Amy. I had surgery last Thursday (she moved me up in the surgery schedule before her vacation & the polyp was taken out & a D&C), but the doctor I go to thinks I am too big (16 month size) for an endometrial ablasion. I have heard otherwise, so I am going to another doctor for another opinion.
Thanks so much for the link. I will definitely try the motrin & I am trying the black strap mollasses. I am hoping the next period/bleeding will be better after this surgery. I will keep you posted.
Did you finally go through menopause? I wake up every morning praying for menopause. I am all white-haired now & ready for the next phase & I shouldn’t have to be going through periods anymore.
July 28, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Hi Lisa,
It may totally depend on the type of endometrial ablation that is performed. When you call the docs to ask for a second opinion, please ask them what kind of ablations they do. I think I was at around 14weeks and was told by my doc that I have a thick endometrium and he still did it.
I don’t know if this is the case, but it seems to me that if they use the kind of EA that freezes or burns (“heats”) the endometrium – and if the endometrium is thick, it doesn’t get through the entire thickness of the endometrium to fully heat or freeze it. Where as in my procedure, it was all done by hand and the doctor could just keep at it until done. My Dr. used the hysteroscope, a rollerball, and resectoscope, so you might ask about getting the same kind.
And yes, I think I’m done bleeding…. but now my breasts are a bit tender, so maybe I’ve got another period coming!?
Best to you! and keep us posted.
August 14, 2009 at 3:58 am
I am up late again because I can’t sleep and I keep forgetting to take the iron. Thank you everyone who has posted here over the years. I also am happy to know that I am not alone. My iron was at 9 then 14 now 11. I have six fibroids and have had two kids with them in there. Didn’t even know they existed until I got pregnant with the first one. Now they are wreaking havoc on me and the poor kids are suffering. Not sure what I am going to do but I am considering hysterectomy. Information I have received says if you need hormones after menopause the fibroids could come back or get worse. Ugh.
September 19, 2009 at 10:48 pm
Hi Everybody! YAY!!!
FYI — I contacted WordPress and they were able to fix the blog!!! Still no sign of Eclectic Geek herself, but at least most things seem to work.
I’ve asked if it was an actual malfunction or the domain mapping wasn’t paid up or whatever…. and will continue to follow through on this is just in case.
I really hope the whole thing is working again and all the regulars come back!
(for those who get ALL the comments emailed to them, sorry for all the repeat posts, but I want the message to get through to everyone!)
November 16, 2009 at 4:22 am
On the subject of anemia, I just want to say that it can turn dangerous very quickly. I had one surgery a year and a half ago to remove a fibroid but it grew back, bigger than ever and eight months later I was having endless periods with clots the size of golf balls and becoming weaker and weaker and having trouble breathing. All the doctors told me I had to have a hysterectomy but I kept pursuing less invasive options. Ten days ago, during my last period, I went to see my fourth doctor. I was bleeding so heavily on the way to see her that by the time I arrived my jeans had blood stains almost to the knees. She told me I looked anemic and made me go for a blood count. According to the results, as of 4:00 that afternoon I was still in the “normal” range (though at the very very low end). But that same night I hemorrhaged and passed out. Luckily I was visiting my parents at the time and my mother found me lying on the floor in a pile of vomit. I ended up in the emergency room, then in the hospital, where they told me my blood count was down to 6.5. and i had to have a transfusion. In short — I could easily have died. I know we’re all used to bleeding — to the point that we might not take these things as seriously as we should. But they can be dangerous. I am now seriously considering a hysterectomy — on the grounds that i do not want to have another surgery that doesn’t work and I can’t see going through what I just went through again. It was truly horrifying. Ten days later I am still incredibly week, though the black strap is helping. On the other hand, I am itching all over my body. It might be the birth controls they gave me — or the massive doses of Premarin they used to stop the bleeding. Whatever it is, its definitely not funny or enjoyable.
December 30, 2009 at 8:34 am
Great! I came across this site by mistake, I was surfing around the worldwide web for Honolulu floor installation when I found your site. I’m lucky I found it. Just what I was searching for. Favorited your site, I will continue my research tomorrow
December 30, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Is there any express diet that you may advocate for someone that’s 220 and 6′4? I’ve a hard time losing weight also.
December 31, 2009 at 3:55 am
Are intramural, fundus and intramural left wall fibroid dangerous? Mine are rather small 0.8cm and 0.5cm. Will they grow and how fast? I removed a 12.5cm x 10.5cm x 8cm subserosal fibroid that was growing quite rapidly but not the other 2.
January 2, 2010 at 9:41 am
For all those with anemia and heavy clotting periods, I would highly suggest you check into Endometrial Ablation. Be mindful that there are other options besides a hysterectomy. I suffered from anemia for a while and I had an EA and do not have any more bleeding:) My iron has drastically improved (do not take iron supplements) and I attribute it to the EA. The procedure was in office and a bit uncomfortable for a good 8 hours after the procedure; however, I was feeling pretty good the next day. The only downside is I have the normal PMS symptoms that do NOT go away (unfortunately). I also have fibroid tumors and OBGYN has prescribed NSAID (Naproxin) to reduce inflammation and Aygestin (have not started to take this – I’m scared).
Good luck!
January 3, 2010 at 1:34 pm
Hi, I recently found your blog – thank you for writing. Just wanted to let you know that it’s not showing up correctly on the BlackBerry Browser (I have a Tour). Either way, I’m now subscribed to your RSS feed on my laptop, so thanks!
January 3, 2010 at 1:42 pm
I just wanted to say thank-you for your site.I finally forced myself after many many heavy bleeding episodes(over 2 years now) and too much pain (almost like giving birth) to research the topic further. I am a health professional but I shy away from “women” conditions even my own,I hate the doctor.She really never listens to me and assumes because I am one, I know everything about this subject. When I am out and about I look closer to 35 than 48 and this makes it hard as well to convience people(husband,docs ) you are really not well,things are a changing inside….I could go on but your readers and you have given me courage to check things out and find my way before things really get out of hand. I am generally very happy and out going and active.The last three months has shut me down either due to the bleeding lower immunity due to weather,hormonal brain fog, emotional swings ,bleeding and pushing myself to hard trying to train .Now I know why most older people say aging sucks….my brain nor the way I look and behave aren’t 48 but my body just wants to be I guess.
My tweenie is toally afraid of the Big M after watching a few episodes with me… Frankly I am afrad too… I am going to get more information and even though I don’t want to be an expert on this subject it seems the only way I can help myself..Doctors just want to comment on how pretty and young I look .. I will keep you posted on my journey and natural remedies that may help some.
This is my first bed ridden bout with the bleeding and pain thing.I do beleive I am anemic and clots though not as bad as most here are getting worst each month. Thanks for having this blog to encourage me to help guide my own healing..Something I always encourage my patients to but it is harder to doctor yourself
February 4, 2010 at 4:40 pm
Thanks for the comments. I am sitting at work, too weak to focus. I’ve had a prior myomectomy approximately 10 years ago. My fibroid tumors grew back and I too bleed heavily and crave ice. I’m anemic and take iron three times a day. I am encouraged to seek help. Thanks
February 18, 2010 at 2:22 am
Interesting, I appreciate your issue.